Architectural standpoints in Malta are aplenty - there are so many quirky features that not only capture the attention of visitors to our islands but also locals who value more than the glorious beauty of the sun and the sea. This Instagram page shares some of the best niches on the island and gives its viewers a chance to appreciate their absolute beauty.
Niches, or nicca in Maltese, were brought to the islands in the 16th Century upon the arrival of the Knights of St John and could be first seen primarily in Valletta and the Three Cities, but smaller towns and villages also made use of this type of architectural beauty. These stone niches were either carved into the façades of commercial, public and residential buildings or built into the structure of buildings across the islands. Used as housing for statues that showed reverence to the Catholic faith, depictions of the Virgin Mary, Jesus Christ and patron saints filled the streets for all to worship. Here are 10 of the quirkiest still around:
1. The typical scene
Whenever locals think of a typical nicca we always picture the Virgin Mary, sometimes as a stone carving and, other times, depicted in her classic blue robes.
2. In nanna’s garden
A good percentage of Maltese nanniet (grandmothers) have a special feature in their gardens, yards or even slap bang in the middle of their living room - the classic nicca with Mary as the star.
3. The grand statement
Some households display their reverence with rather bold statements - a beautiful niche on the front of their houses.
4. A random shrine
You may be walking through the countryside or driving through the villages and spot a random nicca hanging out by the side of the road. This, yes, is pretty normal.
5. Upon the façade
What’s a Maltese façade without a little nicca? Inbuilt into the typical village style of residential buildings, this type of nicca features patron saints or staple icons thought to protect the house and its inhabitants.
6. The ultimate bridge
Sometimes a simple crossover between houses is not enough; sometimes the only way to get it right is to stick a holy shrine bang in the centre. Niccec are often seen in architectural features such as this.
7. The artistic representation
When inspiration fails to strike, the best thing you can do is imitate the best! Take Michelangelo’s Pieta’, shrink it and stick it on a corner, somewhere.
8. The view catcher
Little passages that can be used as refuge often feature a niche with the Madonna and Child, the Assumption of the Virgin and other key figures in the Catholic faith. Sometimes you’re not too sure where to look…the view can be quite captivating.
9. Of rubble and flowers
Stones act as shelter, like caves in the wild, while foliage shows respect with candles often added for reverence - the local nicca frequently features such adornments.
10. The absolute icon
Old cities like Valletta, Birgu, Mdina and Rabat feature some of the most iconic niches. They act as standpoints in the architecture of a building and they are built into the columns and as bold as ever.
The nicca is quite precious to the Maltese public. It’s a statement that emulates the country’s religious standpoint but it’s also a pretty feature that brings a smile to a lot of faces, not only for its religious significance but for its artistic and historical wonder.